Handbag Fairy

Louise has designs on success

Breaking into the fashion industry is a tough business, but not if you're armed with persistence, creativity and a great idea, as Louise Harvey discovered.

With the support of Invest Northern Ireland's Go for it programme, Louise is making a big name for herself in style circles after setting up handbagfairy.com, a new online retail site and party plan company based in Belfast but selling all over the world.

"I've always been interested in fashion and I've always yearned to start my own business, but I knew I had to offer something different to get my foot firmly in the door," said Louise, who offers hard-to-find designer-inspired bags at budget prices.

"It's simple, it's focused and it works."

To build interest in the business, Louise has already used a number of innovative marketing methods to complement the success of the website, including developing a customer relationship management database, distributing regular email newsletters and using social networking sites.

"I also provide Handbag Fairy parties across Northern Ireland and Great Britain, which means customers get to shop in the comfort of their own home and at discounted prices. This has proved to be a great success and I'm keen to capitalise on this further." Louise also sells her merchandise to individual boutiques.

To enhance her chances of early success, Louise enrolled in the Go for it programme, which she said helped her to get a grasp of all the essentials of running a business, including sales, marketing and book-keeping.

"I had worried about all the financial aspects of business, but I shouldn't have. Every subject was presented in a way that was easy to understand.

"Signing up for the Go for it programme also enabled me to meet lots of people in a similar situation to me and we benefited greatly from hearing each other's experiences and challenges. The supportive environment and practical advice on offer is invaluable."

Louise said that while starting her own business was challenging, she has enjoyed the experience. "It's given me a passion and enthusiasm I have never had in any other job and I'm really enjoying the freedom of being my own boss."

Looking ahead, Louise is keen to grow her internet business and recruit more 'Handbag Fairies' for her Party Plans across the UK but particularly in Northern Ireland.

"It's been an incredible journey so far and I know I may have a long way to go before I make my first million, but I'm confident my passion and dedication will get me there in the end."

The Go for it Programme is provided by Invest Northern Ireland and is part financed by the European Regional Development Fund. For details, log on to: www.goforitni.com .